Downton Abbey men’s fashion: A modern gentleman’s guide
We get inspired by many things here at Gents Fashion Co, and right now, bingeing Downton Abbey in our Amsterdam content studios has given us a fresh boost of inspiration.
While we’re minimalists at heart, some of the outfits in this TV series are nothing short of stunning. The crisp lines, the subtle colors, and the gentle nods to cultural shifts in Britain as it progressed from pre-World War I to the late 1920s are just captivating.
Although we could write an entire series about the show itself, we thought it would be a lovely idea to create a short list of our favorite looks from Downton Abbey and explore how to recreate them in a modern, sustainable way.
These outfits are high-maintenance, and if you’ve seen the show or know anything about the upper-class British culture depicted, you’ll know they had butlers, servants, and entire teams managing their lives—including their wardrobes.
The show even features a dedicated room for shining and maintaining shoes. Now, we don’t know how accurate this portrayal is (see full breakdown by Gentlemen’s Gazette of “What “Downton Abbey” Got Wrong – A Menswear Expert’s Review), but it certainly paints a picture of opulence and the immense wealth these families had.
Some of these outfits are just on point, looking as sharp today as they did then. Shows like Downton Abbey and Peaky Blinders make us rethink our style, tipping our hats (figuratively and literally) to a time when a three-piece suit was just everyday wear.
The timeless appeal of Downton Abbey’s men’s style
Downton Abbey isn’t just a feast for period drama fans; it’s also a visual guide to the golden age of men’s fashion.
The series lets us peek into a world of sharp tailoring, luxurious fabrics, and the kind of attention to detail we often long for today. Every outfit tells a story of class, culture, and timeless sophistication.
Downton Abbey men’s fashion looks
Downton Abbey men’s fashion looks are a masterclass in timeless elegance, showcasing refined tailoring, rich textures, and an impeccable eye for detail.
From sharp three-piece suits and sophisticated morning coats to rugged tweed outerwear, each outfit captures the essence of early 20th-century British aristocracy.
These iconic styles seamlessly blend formality and practicality, offering a wealth of inspiration for the modern gentleman looking to add a touch of vintage sophistication to his wardrobe.
Jump to:
The morning suit
The look: The morning suit, as worn by Lord Grantham, is the epitome of early 1900s formalwear. Traditionally featuring a long tailcoat, waistcoat, and striped trousers, this outfit was reserved for daytime events like weddings or formal gatherings.
Modern twist: Opt for a tailored three-piece suit in muted tones like charcoal grey or navy blue. Swap the long tailcoat for a shorter, modern blazer to keep it wearable for today’s occasions. Add a patterned tie that subtly nods to Edwardian aesthetics but avoids feeling costume-like.
Sustainability tip: Seek out vintage or second-hand three-piece suits to embrace the timeless elegance of this look while reducing waste. Alternatively, look for brands offering ethically produced fabrics for tailored pieces.
Dinner jackets with a twist
The look: Formal dinners at Downton Abbey called for tuxedos or black-tie ensembles, with traditional black dinner jackets paired with crisp white shirts and bow ties.
Modern twist: For a contemporary update, try a velvet dinner jacket in rich tones like deep navy, emerald green, or burgundy. Pair it with slim-fit trousers and a sleek bow tie or silk cravat for a dashing look that stands out.
Sustainability tip: Invest in a velvet blazer made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials. Alternatively, rent formalwear for special occasions to minimize environmental impact while enjoying high-end style.
Casual layers: Waistcoats and cardigans
The look: Throughout the show, the men layer waistcoats, shawl-collar cardigans, and lightweight wool sweaters for a relaxed yet refined aesthetic, perfect for informal settings like breakfast or strolls around the estate.
Modern twist: Bring this layered look into the 21st century with a fitted waistcoat over a cotton button-down shirt. Add a shawl-collar cardigan or merino wool sweater for extra warmth and texture. Stick to neutral shades like grey, brown, or cream for a versatile wardrobe.
Sustainability tip: Choose pieces made from organic cotton or ethically sourced wool. Look for brands that specialize in natural fibers and prioritize biodegradable dyes.
The outerwear game: Trench coats and tweed
The look: The rugged outdoor scenes at Downton Abbey showcase timeless outerwear like heavy tweed coats, waxed cotton jackets, and practical trench coats. These pieces were designed to withstand the elements while maintaining an air of sophistication.
Modern twist: Opt for a tailored wool overcoat in camel or navy for a sharp, contemporary feel. Alternatively, a waxed cotton jacket offers a casual yet refined option for urban or countryside adventures.
Sustainability tip: Invest in outerwear made from recycled or upcycled materials, such as tweed crafted from repurposed wool. Brands offering lifetime repairs are also a great choice for ensuring longevity.
Accessories that elevate the look
The look: Accessories played a key role in completing the outfits of Downton Abbey. Pocket watches, polished leather shoes, cufflinks, and silk ties added layers of sophistication, while top hats and bow ties were staples for formal occasions.
Modern twist: Add a vintage-inspired pocket square or a minimalist lapel pin to your suit for subtle flair. Replace the pocket watch with a modern timepiece that reflects classic design elements.
Sustainability tip: Invest in high-quality, timeless accessories that will last for years. Consider second-hand stores or artisan makers who prioritize ethical practices.
Recreating the style sustainably
Choose quality fabrics
To achieve the elegance of Downton Abbey, opt for sustainable and natural fabrics like organic cotton, linen, and ethically sourced wool. Support brands that focus on eco-friendly manufacturing to bring vintage style into the modern era.
Invest in timeless tailoring
A well-tailored suit is the cornerstone of Downton Abbey style. Avoid fast fashion and opt for made-to-measure or bespoke tailoring for pieces that will stand the test of time—both in style and durability.
Why Downton Abbey’s fashion is still relevant today
Downton Abbey reminds us of the importance of effort and detail in fashion. It’s not about fleeting trends but about timeless style that reflects care and dignity.
While we may not have teams of butlers pressing our suits, we can certainly channel the elegance of this era into our everyday wardrobes.
Now you’ve got a solid blueprint for crafting your own modern, sustainable take on the iconic Downton Abbey men’s fashion. Which look will you try?